Charles Wallin

Charles Ray Wallin, 83, of Clarksville, Tennessee, formerly of Michie and Shiloh, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 22, leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication. He was born on July 4, 1941, in Michie, Tennessee, the cherished son of the late Marvin and Lucille Thomas Wallin.
He entered into a loving marriage with Elizabeth Rodgers on Nov. 11, 1960.
Charles and Elizabeth began their family in Hammond, Indiana, where they lived for eight years and welcomed their son, Jim, before returning to Shiloh, Tennessee. It was here that Charles completed his education, earning a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Tennessee at Martin.
Beginning his professional journey as a plant engineer at the Steel Mill in Counce, Tennessee, Charles also contributed his skills to Columbus McKinnon in Lexington, Tennessee, and retired from Eaton Corporation in Newbern, Tennessee.
Above all, Mr. Wallin valued his role as a husband, father and Poppy. He took great joy in being an active part of his grandchildren’s lives, imparting knowledge and life lessons, most notably teaching them to drive a stick shift in a treasured ‘55 Chevy. His dedication to his family was evident in the love and time he devoted to them.
In his leisure time and his second love, Charles indulged his passion for restoring vintage Chevrolets, particularly the beloved models of ‘55, ‘56, and ‘57. His meticulous attention to detail and patience became apparent in the exceptional results of his restoration projects.
During his time in Clarksville, Charles and Elizabeth attended Hilldale Church of Christ, fostering connections within their community.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 64 years, Elizabeth Wallin of Clarksville, Tennessee; his son, James Charles (Jim) Wallin and his wife, Jennifer; two grandchildren, Davis and Leslie Wallin; a sister, Betty Choate of Selmer, Tennessee; two sisters-in-law, Janice Cunningham of Michie, Tennessee, and Martha Rodgers of Counce, Tennessee; two brothers-in-law, Max Rodgers and his wife, Margaret, and Jimmy Rodgers, both of Jackson, Tennessee; as well as special friends and neighbors, Betty and Terry Willis and their family, who shared over 40 years of cherished memories with him; along with a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.
In addition to his parents, Charles was preceded in death by his brother, Jimmy Wallin; three brothers-in-law, James Choate, David Cunningham, and Teddy Rodgers; and sister-in-law, Jo Ann Rodgers.
Charles Ray Wallin will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to family and friends, and his passion for life.
Memorial services were held on Friday, Dec. 27, at Shackelford Funeral Directors in Selmer, Tennessee, with Karl Dudley, Randy Cook officiating. Burial followed at Liberty Cemetery in Michie, Tennessee.